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Hôtel des Ventes de Troyes

208 - Virgin and Child Belgian Congo, mid-20ᵉ century Materials: C…
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Estimate €80 - €120
Sale commission
Description
Virgin and Child Belgian Congo, mid-20ᵉ century Materials: Carved wood. Base included (gallery condition). Provenance : Private collection, Belgium Dimensions : H. 36 cm. This moving Virgin and Child bears witness to the encounter between Christian iconography introduced by the Catholic missions and the sculptural sensibility specific to the African workshops of the Congo during the colonial period. Far from simply copying European models, the artist the universal theme of sacred maternity to a local plastic vocabulary, giving rise to a singular work a singular work in which Christian spirituality and African aesthetics come together harmoniously. come together harmoniously. The composition is notable for its remarkable balance. The mother, standing, envelops the child with a protective gesture, while the child rests against her breast in an attitude of of confidence and serenity. The delicate features of the faces, the lowered eyes and the meditative expression meditative expression convey a profound impression of contemplation. This silent gentleness is one of the great qualities of the work. The slender silhouette, simplified volumes and geometric drapery are reminiscent of certain currents in Congolese sculpture of the mid-20ᵉ century, a period during which many missionary workshops missionary workshops encouraged the emergence of an original African Christian art. The finely and the elongated proportions give the figure a particular elegance while retaining a strong spiritual presence. Beyond its religious dimension, this sculpture celebrates maternity as a symbol of protection, transmission and love. protection, transmission and love. It is a precious testimony to the artistic history history of colonial Congo. racelet
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About the sale ARTS OF AFRICA & OCEANIA: Three exceptional family collections
Auction location
Auction time 06/22/2026 at 2:00 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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